Albuquerque PD to hire civilian investigators (Video)

The City of Albuquerque will soon seek applicants to fill 25 civilian investigator positions to work alongside local law enforcement in solving property crimes.

The “police service aides” will take reports, collect evidence and tend to other paperwork involved in solving crimes like burglaries and car thefts.

City Councilor Ken Sanchez, who co-sponsored the bill to fund the positions, noted that residents expect an immediate response when they call 911 and, due in part to officer shortages, that has not been the case. However, the city hopes that with the aide positions filled, officers will be able to respond to emergency calls in a more timely manner.

Sanchez said the current wait time is more than half an hour and “that’s not right.”

The city seeks applicants who have prior related experience, which can include investigative work, law enforcement or military service, according to Mayoral Chief of Staff Gilbert Montano.

The investigators will undergo five weeks of training at the Albuquerque police academy.